MEN'S WORLDTEAMS
AG2R CITROEN FRANCE
Riders: 29
Under 26: 12
Over 35: 3
Key stat: 19 of the team's 29-man roster are French
Few teams were quieter in the transfer market than AG2R, which is something of a surprise as the French squad is badly in need of rejuvenation after another mediocre season in 2022. The sole arrival of breakaway specialist Frank Bonnamour and a handful of promoted neo-pros are unlikely to make the team any less dependent on Ben O'Connor, who will be under pressure to deliver a high placing at the Tour. Although still spearheaded by 37-year-old Greg van Avermaet and past-his-best Oliver Naesen in the Classics, Benoît Cosnefroy looks to have entered his prime and should challenge for some major Classics.
ALPECIN-DECEUNINCK BELGIUM
Riders: 30
Under 26: 8
Over 35: 0
Key stat: The team's total of 34 wins in 2022 was higher than all but five of the World Tour teams
As well as nicking Quick Step's old sponsor Deceuninck, Alpecin are also striving to dethrone their Belgian compatriots as the best in both the Classics and the sprints, as they look towards their long-awaited first season in the World Tour. Søren Kragh Andersen arrives to take some pressure off star man Mathieu van der Poel in the Classics, while Quinten Hermans gives them a strong option new in the hilly Classics; and though Quick Step have snatched Tim Merlier from them, Jasper Philipsen and new signing Kaden Groves should ensure many sprint wins.
ARKÉA-SAMSIC FRANCE
Riders: 30
Under 26:
15 Over 35.2
This story is from the February 02, 2023 edition of CYCLING WEEKLY.
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This story is from the February 02, 2023 edition of CYCLING WEEKLY.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
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